A picture from an inspection of the line done by then NSW Transport Minister John Watkins in 2006. Sections of the line, including this one at St Helena, were badly damaged in the 2005 floods.Alex Easton

Building rail in NSW 50-times more expensive than Victoria

COST estimates by the O'Farrell Government, 50 times more expensive than reinstating regional Victorian rail lines, are hampering the re-establishment of the Casino to Murwillumbah rail line, say the Greens.

NSW Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian said a 130-page report on the cost of reinstating the rail line was done by a transport expert.

"The study was led by experienced transport project director Tim Poole and I certainly believe he is more qualified to undertake this analysis than the Greens."

Ms Berejiklian said the report found the $900 million was needed to: clear vegetation, stabilise landslide areas, replace timber bridges and sleepers, undertake an extensive replacement of ballast and to bring the system up to safety and operating standards for frequent and quick train services.

"The report found that even if this money was spent, the line still would not serve the corridor between Lismore, Ballina, Byron Bay and Tweed, and would not help direct access to health, education and social services."